Victoria is advancing with the final stages of testing for a contactless public transport payment system, which will enable users to pay with credit cards or smartphones. This system aims to modernize the state's public transport network.
Trial Stages
Controlled laboratory testing involving various bank cards and smart devices is scheduled to commence next month. This phase will be followed by public trials on the state's public transport system in the coming months. These public tests will initially occur at a limited number of train stations before the system is implemented across the entire network early this year. Public Transport Minister Gabrielle Williams stated that this is a critical step to ensure the technology functions smoothly in real-world conditions. Payments will first be available on trains, subsequently expanding to buses and trams.
System Background
The introduction of tap-and-go travel was part of the contract awarded to the US-French company Conduent in 2023, when it assumed control of the myki ticketing system. The scheme has experienced delays and received criticism regarding the pace of its implementation compared to other Australian states like New South Wales and Queensland, which already have similar contactless payment systems.
Infrastructure and Past Issues
Close to 3,000 new ticket readers have been installed at over 280 train stations in preparation for the transition to contactless travel. A six-month trial of ticketless travel conducted in Wangaratta on four bus routes in 2025 was criticized by industry insiders, who noted that tap-and-go systems were already widely available. The modernization of Victoria's public transport ticketing system has been under scrutiny. The awarding of the contract to Conduent resulted in questions regarding its international track record with tap-and-go payments. Additionally, the government received criticism in 2023 for rejecting a credit card tap-on technology trial for myki, despite documents indicating its readiness.